Back away from that rack of seasonal gift bags. Our crafty packaging ideas are just as foolproof and they'll make your presents felt at the holidays -- and at birthdays, weddings, and showers all year long.

Tie One On
If it's the thought that counts, what does a slapped-on peel-and-stick curlicue ribbon convey? You can easily make package toppers that feel much less perfunctory and predictable than a store-bought bow (left). Grab beads, blossoms, bells, or other bling from a crafts store and knot one piece at a time onto embroidery floss or thin ribbon. To make it truly personal, spell out a giftee's name with charms, or turn a locket into a gift tag (cut dark paper to fit inside, and write your message with a gel pen). These little touches have a big impact, which means you can keep the rest of the package simple. To dress up a gift tube (which is a nice way to bestow a holiday gratuity), we just taped a strip of pretty paper around the belly.

Assorted boxes and gift mailers, containerstore.com. "Orbs" box (far left), $9, katespaperie.com. Flower (on box), $2; bells, $4 per dozen; leaves, $1 each; beads, $2 per dozen; locket, $3; flower (on tube), $1; all at Toho Shoji, 212-868-7465. Alphabet charms, $11 per pack, the Ink Pad, 212-463-9876.

Time-Saving Tip
"A good time-saver is to wrap all your gifts in similar paper, then add flourishes that reflect each recipient's personality," says Shane Powers, deputy style and home editor.